Biermischgetränke

When an American thinks of Germany, one of the first things that comes to mind is German beer. And rightfully so, with Deutschland usually ranking second in terms of national beer consumption and the average German consuming more than two liters a week. Of the some 2,800 breweries in Europe, roughly 45 percent of them are located in Germany, and Germany has more breweries than any other country besides the U.S. And indeed, Germany also has a proud brewing tradition. The famous Bavarian Reinheitsgebot, or "Purity Law," began regulating German brewing in 1516 and beer could only contain water, barley, and hops. This ensured that German beer would be brewed cleanly, consistently, and according to standards that would guarantee eternal greatness. But when this was applied nationwide following German unification in 1871, many beers with more creative ingredients became extinct and much of Germany's beer diversity disappeared. Though the law is no longer in force today, most breweries continue to abide by the law for the sake of historic authenticity (just look at the label on any German beer bottle). This helps explain why most German beer is of the lager variety (though wheat beers also are widely popular).

But this also might explain why even Germans seem to grow tired of the same old beer all time, and why they seem inspired to concoct new Biermischgetränke (beer mixed drinks) to liven things up. Without the variety found in U.S. microbrews or the flavors of Belgian or British ales, I can certainly understand this trend (though it hasn't affected my beer consumption...). Below I have detailed some of the more common Biermischgetränke found on most restaurant menus. These are surely NOT what an American thinks of when he thinks of German beer:

Radler: literally meaning "cyclist," the Radler is a mix of roughly 60 percent Pilsner and 40 percent German lemon-lime soda (try Sprite). It's very thirst-quenching and like the name implies, it's ideal for safely riding your bike away from the Biergarten after consuming a few. (By the way, if you're in northern Germany, this is called an Alster.)

Alster: Unless you're in northern Germany, this is usually considered a mix of Pilsner and German lemony-orange soda. Decent alternative to a Radler.

Diesel: A Pilsner beer or other lager mixed with cola. This one's a bit strange, but it's not half bad. It is so named because it is said to resemble diesel fuel, named after the German inventor Rudolf Diesel who invented the diesel engine in 1892.

Colaweizen: Like a Diesel, this is just a Hefeweizen (wheat beer) and cola mix. Just weird.

Russ or Russ'n: This beer drink is like a Radler but with a Hefeweizen (i.e. add lemon-lime soda/lemonade). I prefer a Radler honestly.

Kirschweizen: This is a Hefeweizen with a shot or two of cherry juice added. None of that cherry cocktail stuff from home, just use straight up cherry or sour cherry juice. Resembles a Belgian Kriek beer. Perhaps not the most manly beer to drink with the guys at poker night, but it's delicious.

Bananenweizen: You guessed it, Hefeweizen with a couple shots of banana juice. I honestly didn't know bananas produced enough pure juice to sell commercially, but German grocery stores stock it as such. It definitely complements the subtle banana notes of the Hefeweizen. I was hesitant at first, but I'm now a believer.

Grapefruitweizen: Obviously, Hefeweizen with grapefruit juice. This is just straight up tasty and refreshing.

These all might strike the American palate as especially strange, but I encourage you to be adventurous and give them a try sometime. I think you'll be as surprised as I was. Prost!